Karen Carpeneter died 42 years ago.

She was also a very accomplished drummer. 

The Carpenters were that kind of group that many of my friends wanted to shun because they were a bit kitschy, but many of them finally caved pleading, in effect, that even tough guys need a puppy; and it didn't hurt that the puppy could croon like an angel. The best of the songs were classic but classics from an earlier time.

Karen  was the glue That  kept things together,her brother had a drug problem 

that was a big problem. 

When I'm reading comments on audiogon about the music people listen to, I pay attention because I'm open to new music and I wonder if anyone will mention the Carpenters.

I'm aware of the bias against the Carpenters because some people think they're too square, not rocky enough, etc. But it seems to me that Carpenters is excellent audiophile material, at least for audiophiles who are into music, (as opposed to audiophiles who are into analyzing their gear). But I have never seen anyone here mention the Carpenters despite Karen's voice (which is considered the greatest of all time by many, including me), great layered harmonies, lush arrangements with hundreds of orchestral, rock, and pop instruments, great songwriting, excellent recording, etc. 

Maybe some people don't want to be known for liking music that others consider to be square. Nevertheless, some of the most admired musicians gave high praise to them, including Brian Wilson, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, etc. And in a 1975 Playboy magazine readers' poll, Karen Carpenter was voted the best rock drummer of the year – edging out Led Zeppelin's John Bonham, The Who's Keith Moon and The Beatles' Ringo Starr. 

So, what's not to love about the Carpenters? 

Karen was a beautiful person and talent.  Words can't express her level of talent as she was accomplished in so many areas.  In my book, Karen is #1 and I have all her music.